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Kanji Probiotic Drink: Benefits, Recipes, and Health Insights

This refreshing Kanji drink is a fermented rice beverage that offers a delightful blend of probiotics, sweetness, and citrus. Ideal for hot days, it not only quenches your thirst but also supports gut health, making it a delicious and nutritious choice!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup of cooked rice (preferably white or brown)
  • 4 cups of filtered water
  • 1/4 cup of sugar (cane sugar or coconut sugar)
  • 1/4 cup of whey (from yogurt) or a probiotic starter culture
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 12 tablespoons of lemon juice (optional)
  • Fresh fruits or herbs for garnish (like mint or berries) (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  2. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice with 4 cups of filtered water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer:
    • 20-25 minutes for white rice
    • 40-45 minutes for brown rice
  3. Remove from heat and let cool for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Transfer the cooled rice to a blender, add 4 cups of filtered water, and blend on high until smooth and creamy.
  5. Pour the blended rice mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup of sugar and stir until dissolved.
  6. Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of salt to enhance flavor.
  7. Optionally, add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice for a citrusy flavor.
  8. Add 1/4 cup of whey or the appropriate amount of probiotic starter culture to the mixture.
  9. Stir thoroughly to distribute the probiotics evenly.
  10. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and place it in a warm, dark place for 24-48 hours.
  11. After 24 hours, check for bubbles and a slightly tangy smell. Ferment longer for a stronger flavor if desired.
  12. Taste the mixture; adjust sweetness with more sugar or lemon juice if needed.
  13. Strain the fermented mixture into a clean glass jar or pitcher using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
  14. Optionally, mix in fresh fruits or herbs for added flavor.
  15. Seal the jar or pitcher and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  16. Stir the Kanji drink before serving. Pour into glasses and garnish with fresh fruits or herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust the sweetness and acidity to your preference.
  • The fermentation time may vary based on room temperature; warmer environments speed up the process.
  • Consume within a week for the best flavor and probiotic benefits.